Sibling Support
They’re best friends at times, they drive each other crazy at times, but they’re siblings forever. While caring for your child who suffered a birth injury can be all-consuming, you still love their brothers and sisters just as much. Here are some resources with the point of view of a sibling to understand what it’s like to have a brother or sister with special needs, and how parents can support siblings in that role.
Disclaimer: The information on this page was obtained from third party materials/links for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute legal advice nor does it express or reflect the policies, thoughts or opinions of NICA.
Last updated 5/19/2026
Explore the resources below to learn more about Sibling Support
Expand each drop-down below to find the resources. You can learn something even if you just have a little time!
Tell me the basics – Quick overviews you can read in just a few minutes. These highlight the most important ideas so you can get started fast.
Show me more info – A deeper explanation for when you want to build your understanding. These provide examples, context, and additional details.
Give me all the details – Comprehensive resources like full websites, long documents, or webinars. These are best when you want thorough answers and in-depth learning.
Tell me the basics
Support for Siblings of Children with Special Needs
A website listing 8 things siblings struggle with, and what parents can do to help.
Type: Website
Source: Family Network on Disabilities
Show me more info
Caring for Siblings of Kids with Disabilities (English)
Cuidar de los hermanos de niños con discapacidades (Español)
A website with tips for parents about helping siblings of different ages understand about the birth injury. It also gives specific ideas by age for how parents can love and support the siblings too.
Type: Website
Source: Nemours
Give me all the details
Young Siblings of Individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities: Common Experiences
Article from staff of the Sibling Support Network with discussion of emotions experienced by younger-age siblings and ways parents can offer support.
Type: Article
Source: Impact – Journal of the Institute for Community Integration at the University of Minnesota
Growing Up as a Special Needs Sibling
How do brothers or sisters really feel about their sibling with a disability? How does it really affect them? A podcast about growing up as a sibling to a brother or sister with special needs, discussing the emotions, responsibilities, challenges and joys both in childhood and adulthood. It includes practical advice for parents to ensure their typically developing children also have positive experiences.
Type: Podcast
Source: Parenting Impossible Podcast (also on Spotify & Apple podcasts)
Sibling Support Network
This organization works with organizations across the US to run Sibshops – programs that run meetings for siblings to connect and have fun and learn together about being a special sibling. You can see if there’s a Sibshop program in your area. The website features many other resources as well.
Type: Website/Organization
Source: Sibling Support Network